Art

Enjoying art and having the time to develop art skills - either practical or appreciation – could be a great retirement pleasure. At it simplest you can just go out and buy the tools and maybe a book and just get on with it. But if you want some professional help there are a multitude of courses out there suitable for everyone from learners to experienced amateurs. Most local evening colleges run art classes but online there are some directories: www.artcourses.co.uk lists art classes, workshops, and painting holidays nationwide. www.freeindex.co.uk/categories/Entertainment_ and_Lifestyle/Arts_and_Crafts/Art_Courses. Also lists an large number of courses you can take. www.londonartcollege.co.uk offers courses online If you are more interested in collecting art or going to auctions there are courses for that too including Sotheby’s at www.sothebysinstitute.com - just look up their short courses and evening classes. But outside of London there are many courses on art appreciation.

And finally, if you just enjoy art – many local Art Galleries have friends associations or members clubs which will allow you in for previews or special events. Just look up your local gallery on the internet. The Tate gallery with branches across the country has a very strong membership organisation. See www.tate.org.uk